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In This Episode:
Dr. K explains the most common causes of insomnia and other sleep problems in older adults, and how to get them correctly diagnosed. She covers:
- How sleep changes with normal aging
- Common physical health and mental health problems that can affect sleep
- What types of medications are especially associated with sleep difficulties
- What to know about sleep apnea and sleep-related breathing disorders
- Restless leg syndrome and periodic limb movements of sleep
- What to do if you’re concerned about insomnia
Related Resources:
- How Sleep Affects Health & Changes with Aging
- 5 Top Causes of Sleep Problems in Seniors, & Proven Ways to Treat Insomnia
- Evidence-Based Recommendations for the Assessment and Management of Sleep Disorders in Older Persons
- HelpGuide.org Sleep Apnea Quiz
- HelpGuide.org Restless Leg Syndrome
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Marion Childress-Usher says
Dr. K, this was a good presentation for me to hear. I do have an insomnia problem which I’ve had for a number of years, particularly after graduating from seminary. Pain is one of my issues as well as leg movements (my husband tells me about the leg movements). I have dealt with restless leg syndrome, but that seems to subside when I do stretching exercises before bed. So, I’ve got two worrisome issues: insomnia and falls, both of which I’d like to manage better than I’m doing now.
Leslie Kernisan, MD MPH says
I’m so glad you found this useful. Insomnia can be a difficult problem, but once the underlying issues are identified, it’s often possible for older adults to experience improvements in their sleep (without resorting to problematic sedatives). Good luck working with your doctors to sort this out!